The Queen’s joy as her winning horse Estimate makes history in the Gold Cup

The Queen had every reason to celebrate today as her horse Estimate won the Gold Cup on the third day of Royal Ascot.

The horse’s win marks the first time a reigning monarch has won the race and gives the Queen her 22nd win at the annual race.

The Queen arrives at Day Three of Royal Ascot. Photo:@EmeiliaBurgess

Estimate, the four-year-old filly is celebrating a second year of success at Ascot after winning the Queen’s Vase at last year’s race, in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year. The dark bay thoroughbred had been a favourite to win the race today at 7/2.

“It’s been amazing,” grandson Peter Phillips told Clare Balding as he spoke to Channel 4. “This is her passion and her life and she’s here every year and she strives to have winners.”

“To win the big one at Royal Ascot means so much to her. Everyone is just thrilled, it’s very close to her heart today is very special,” Peter, son of the Princess Royal added.

The Queen was attending day three of the annual race meeting and the event is said to be Her Majesty’s favourite week.

As the monarch arrived by carriage, she was met by rapturous applause from the crowds who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the Queen as she arrived in the royal procession.

The 87-year-old arrived looking elegant in a lilac coat and matching hat. She was joined by Prince Andrew, Peter Phillips and his wife Autumn in her carriage as she arrived.

Joined by her family, in the royal box, the Queen appeared emotional after the win, with a tear in her eye.

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie appeared to be enjoying the race as the pair were seen jumping up and down cheering on the horse.

Speaking about Estimate ahead of today’s Gold Cup, trainer Sir Michael told the BBC: “Her preparation has gone well. She enjoys Ascot, but this is much tougher than anything she has encountered before.”

During her reign, the Queen has had a total of 21 wins at Royal Ascot, with today’s Gold Cup marking her 22nd win. Her first win at the annual race was in 1953, with the horse Choir Boy.

After the race as The Queen made her way to the parade ring, she was met by huge cheers, as she was congratulated on her win. The horse-lover had been due to present the award, but son Prince Andrew stepped in to present his mother with the Gold Cup.

As Estimate won the race, the Queen was soon congratulated with the horse becoming a top trend on Twitter. Prime Minister David Cameron sent his congratulations tweeting “Huge congratulations to Her Majesty for Estimate’s victory at Royal Ascot – first time ever a reigning monarch’s horse has won the Gold Cup.”

Royal Ascot continues until Saturday and it is expected the Queen will attend the final two days.